English/Language Arts
HLA100A
English 9A
Throughout the English 9 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts; developing analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres. Students will read a variety of fictional texts ranging from micro fiction, short stories, and novels to practice identifying story elements and their impact on the author’s purpose. Students will also read a range of advertisements across marketing sub-genres to analyze how advertisers market a product and persuade consumers. Students apply their knowledge of informational texts to read critically, making inferences and analyzing bias. Student’s knowledge of argument is extended through immersion and study of two related genres: personal narrative and personal essay culminating in their writing their own personal essay.
**Pathway:Arts & Communications
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 9
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA100B - English 9B.
HLA100B
English 9B
Throughout the English 9 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts; developing analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres. Students will read a variety of fictional texts ranging from micro fiction, short stories, and novels to practice identifying story elements and their impact on the author’s purpose. Students will also read a range of advertisements across marketing sub-genres to analyze how advertisers market a product and persuade consumers. Students apply their knowledge of informational texts to read critically, making inferences and analyzing bias. Student’s knowledge of argument is extended through immersion and study of two related genres: personal narrative and personal essay, culminating in their writing their own personal essay.
**Pathway: Arts & Communication
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 9
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA100A - English 9A.
HLA200A
English 10A
Throughout the English 10 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts. They also develop analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres including foundational documents from American history, multi-media, and visual texts. Students work with literary non-fiction, literature, and informational text types in both their reading and writing. Across the course, students continue to deepen their skills of argumentation with close study and development of claims, counterclaims, line of reasoning, and building evidence-based arguments.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
PREREQUISITE: HLA100A/B - English 9 or HLA510A/B - Honors English 9
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 10
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA200B - English 10B
HLA200B
English 10B
Throughout the English 10 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts. They also develop analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres including foundational documents from American history, multi-media, and visual texts. Students work with literary non-fiction, literature, and informational text types in both their reading and writing. Across the course, students continue to deepen their skills of argumentation with close study and development of claims, counterclaims, line of reasoning, and building evidence-based arguments.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 10
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA200A - English 10A.
HLA301
ELA Core: Writing for Life
This course will include a variety of real life writing experiences and examine college and career possibilities. It will include an extensive research project based on students’ personal interests and goals, in addition to a wide range of speaking, listening, viewing, and reading experiences.
COURSE NOTE: 11th grade students must take Writing for Life for one of their two semesters of ELA
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HSS801A
American Studies - English/Social Studies
This 9th grade course is only available at North Farmington. This is an interdisciplinary course combining Social Studies and English, open to students of all ability levels, where students will be exposed to multiple viewpoints while learning about the people and events that influence and shape our country. The course aims to create a challenging learning environment through the disciplined and integrated study of history and literature, where students will develop the skills for critical thought, analysis, empathy, and expression (written and oral) that are essential for citizens in a democratic society.
This course is team-taught by an English teacher and a Social Studies teacher, in a two-hour block, which allows for in-depth study, research, and the development of major projects. This course satisfies the English 9 Language and Literature and U. S. History requirements
CREDIT: 2.0
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 9
COREQUISITES: Students must take HSS801A/B - American Studies - English concurrently with 1122A/B - American Studies - History.
HLA809
Journalism
This course is designed to offer a general introduction to the writing of news, editorials, features, reviews, and sports stories. Students will learn and practice clear, concise, and accurate writing. Students will also be introduced to desktop publishing and various styles of makeup. Students will be prepared to take Advanced Journalism and Yearbook.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 9-12
HPV801
Acting
This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of the tools and techniques of acting. Students will learn about blocking plays and technical theatre terminology. They will also learn improvisation and memorization techniques as well as theater terminology. Students will be expected to read plays, act out scenes, and do script writing.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: This course could also fulfill the Fine Arts requirement. This course may not fulfill a college/university's requirement of four credits in English.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 9-12
HLA804
ELA Core: Creative Writing
This course is designed for students who are interested in learning to develop their skills in writing poetry, short stories and/or plays. Extensive writing is assigned. Students will examine the work of professional authors and of fellow students as examples. Students will also learn and apply literary terminology and techniques.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA811
Public Speaking
This elective course is designed to help students make oral presentations knowledgeably and confidently. Students will learn how to select a topic, organize the appropriate information, appeal to a specific audience, deliver material effectively, and think critically. Students will also learn how to listen to and evaluate speeches given by others. Speech experiences will include informative speeches, debates, extemporaneous speeches, sales speeches and panel discussions among activities. This course will receive an elective English credit.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 9-12
HLA510A
Honors English 9A
Summer reading is required for Honors English 9. This is a challenging course designed for students who read avidly, write fluently, and have the ability to interrelate ideas and concepts. Students will be expected to read, compose, and think at a complex and sophisticated level. Throughout the Honors English 9 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts; developing analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres. Students will read a variety of fictional texts ranging from micro fiction, short stories, and novels to practice identifying story elements and their impact on the author’s purpose. Students will also read a range of advertisements across marketing sub-genres to analyze how advertisers market a product and persuade consumers. Students apply their knowledge of informational texts to reading critically, making inferences and analyzing bias. Student’s knowledge of argument is extended through immersion and study of two related genres: personal narrative and personal essay culminating in their writing their own personal essay.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: Teacher recommendation or individual requests with consideration of test scores required. Summer reading assignments required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Honors
GRADE: 9
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA510B - Honors English 9B.
HLA510B
Honors English 9B
Summer reading is required for Honors English 9. This is a challenging course designed for students who read avidly, write fluently, and have the ability to interrelate ideas and concepts. Students will be expected to read, compose, and think at a complex and sophisticated level. Throughout the Honors English 9 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts; developing analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres. Students will read a variety of fictional texts ranging from micro fiction, short stories, and novels to practice identifying story elements and their impact on the author’s purpose. Students will also read a range of advertisements across marketing sub-genres to analyze how advertisers market a product and persuade consumers. Students apply their knowledge of informational texts to read critically, making inferences and analyzing bias. Student’s knowledge of argument is extended through immersion and study of two related genres: personal narrative and personal essay culminating in their writing their own personal essay.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: Teacher recommendation or individual requests with consideration of test scores required. Summer reading is required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Honors
GRADE: 9
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA510A - Honors English 9A.
HLA520A
Honors English 10A
Summer reading is required for Honors English 10. This course is designed for students with sophisticated language arts skills. Students will be expected to read and write extensively and at an advanced level. Throughout the Honors English 10 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts. They also develop analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres including foundational documents from American history, multi-media, and visual texts. Students work with literary non-fiction, literature, and informational text types in both their reading and writing. Across the course, students continue to deepen their skills of argumentation with close study and development of claims, counterclaims, line of reasoning, and building evidence-based arguments. Another focus of the class will be to help prepare students for Advanced Placement Courses in grade 11.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: Recommendation by teachers or individual requests with consideration of test scores is required. Summer reading may be required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Honors
GRADE: 10
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA520B - Honors English 10B.
HLA520B
Honors English 10B
Summer reading is required for Honors English 10. This course is designed for students with sophisticated language arts skills. Students will be expected to read and write extensively and at an advanced level. Throughout the Honors English 10 Language and Literature courses, students develop their knowledge of textual elements and structures, enabling them to engage in close reading of increasingly complex texts. They also develop analytical skills and strategies while moving from a variety of literature genres to a variety of nonfiction genres including foundational documents from American history, multi-media, and visual texts. Students work with literary non-fiction, literature, and informational text types in both their reading and writing. Across the course, students continue to deepen their skills of argumentation with close study and development of claims, counterclaims, line of reasoning, and building evidence-based arguments. Another focus of the class will be to help prepare students for Advanced Placement Courses in grade 11.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: Recommendation from teachers, or individual requests with consideration of test scores is required. Summer reading required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Honors
GRADE: 10
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA520A - Honors English 10A.
HLA802
Advanced Journalism
This course involved planning, writing, designing, and producing the school newspaper online and emphasizing the development of a complete journalist who is able to accept responsibility, handle sensitive issues, abide by the canons of journalism ethics, and work in a business-like atmosphere.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: This course is available for repeat credit.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Advanced
GRADE: 9-12
PREREQUISITE: HLA809 - Journalism
HLA630A
Advanced Placement Language & Composition A
This course is designed for students with special abilities and an interest in English. Students should be able to read rapidly and accurately and to write fluently with minimal mechanical difficulty. Students will read mature literature, discuss it analytically, and develop their own ideas through various kinds of writing experiences. A summer reading assignment will be required.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: A summer reading assignment will be required. Students will be encouraged to take the AP Exam in May, from which they may earn college credit and/or advanced standing. A writing sample may be required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Advanced Placement
GRADE: 11 &12
PREREQUISITE: Demonstrated high achievement in English classes, by instructor approval or self-nomination. COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA630B - Advanced Placement Language & Composition B.
HLA630B
Advanced Placement Language & Composition B
This course is designed for students with special abilities and an interest in English. Students should be able to read rapidly and accurately and to write fluently with minimal mechanical difficulty. Students will read mature literature, discuss it analytically, and develop their own ideas through various kinds of writing experiences. A summer reading assignment will be required.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: A summer reading assignment will be required. Students will be encouraged to take the AP Exam in May, from which they may earn college credit and/or advanced standing.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Advanced Placement
GRADE: 11 & 12
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA630A - Advanced Placement Language & Composition A.
HLA640A
Advanced Placement Literature & Composition A
This AP course is designed to provide college-level experience in the critical analysis of literature. It is offered to those students who have demonstrated a strong interest in reading, discussion, and analysis of themes, genre, stylistic modes, and characterization. Considerable writing will be expected and summer reading will be required.
**Pathway: Arts & Communications
COURSE NOTE: A summer reading assignment will be required. Students will be encouraged to take the AP Exam in May, from which they may earn college credit and/or advanced standing. A writing sample may be required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Advanced Placement
GRADE: 11 & 12
PREREQUISITE: Demonstrated high achievement in English classes, by instructor approval or self-nomination.
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA640B - Advanced Placement Literature & Composition B.
HLA640B
Advanced Placement Literature & Composition B
This AP course is designed to provide college-level experience in the critical analysis of literature. It is offered to those students who have demonstrated a strong interest in reading, discussion, and analysis of themes, genre, stylistic modes, and characterization. Considerable writing will be expected and summer reading will be required.
COURSE NOTE: A summer reading assignment will be required. Students will be encouraged to take the AP Exam in May, from which they may earn college credit and/or advanced standing. A writing sample may be required.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Advanced Placement
GRADE: 11 & 12
COREQUISITES: If you take this course, you must also take HLA640A - Advanced Placement Literature & Composition A.
IBLA100A/B/C/D-IB
IBDP English A/B/C/D
This class is a two-year college-level course (four semesters), started in 11th grade. This course can be taken as part of the IB Diploma Programme OR as an individual course separate from the Diploma Programme.
IB ENGLISH A/B (grade 11) Language A: Language and Literature course introduces the critical study and interpretation of written and spoken texts from a wide range of literary and non-literary genres. The formal analysis of texts is supplemented by awareness that meaning is not fixed but can change in respect to contexts of production and consumption.
The course is organized into four parts, each focused on the study of either literary or non-literary texts. Together, the four parts of the course allow the student to explore the language in question through its cultural development and use, its media forms and functions, and its literature. Students develop skills of literary and textual analysis, and also the ability to present their ideas effectively. A key aim is the development of critical literacy.
IB ENGLISH C/D (grade 12)Through the study of a wide range of literature, the Language A: Literature course encourages students to appreciate the artistry of literature and to develop an ability to reflect critically on their reading. Works are studied in their literary and cultural contexts, through close study of individual texts and passages, and by considering a range of critical approaches. In view of the international nature of the IB and its commitment to intercultural understanding, the Language A: Literature course does not limit the study of works to the products of one culture or the cultures covered by any one language. The study of works in translation is especially important in introducing students, through literature, to other cultural perspectives. The response to the study of literature is through oral and written communication, thus enabling students to develop and refine their command of language. Language A: Literature is a flexible course that allows teachers to choose works from prescribed lists of authors and to construct a course that suits the particular needs and interests of their students.
IB Language & Literature Curriculum
COURSE NOTE: Honors English 9 and 10 are strongly recommended. This class is a two-year college-level course (four semesters), started in 11th grade. Each semester builds upon the previous semester in content and skills. This course can be taken as part of the IB Diploma Programme OR as an individual course separate from the Diploma Programme.
Assessment is an integral part of teaching and learning. The most important aims of assessment in the Diploma Programme are that it should support curricular goals and encourage appropriate student learning. Both external and internal assessments are used in the Diploma Programme. IB examiners mark work produced for external assessment, while work produced for internal assessment is marked by teachers and externally moderated by the IB. An optional final exam is available for college credit in the spring of senior year.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: International Baccalaureate
GRADE: 11
COREQUISITES: Grade 11 takes IBLA100A/B -IB - IB English. Grade 12 takes IBLA100C/D-IB - IBDP English.
HLA807
ELA Core: Film Analysis
In the same way that any other English class requires students to read literature and use it as a learning tool, this course also asks students to “read” films by studying them closely. Students will watch a wide variety of films in the course, using them as the anchor texts for course activities and assignments. Course work will lead students through activities designed to develop skills in reading comprehension, writing, listening, and speaking. Writing is a significant component of the course, and students can expect to be writing narrative, expository, and persuasive pieces at a level of sophistication.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA812
ELA Core: Sports Literature & Composition
This course will allow students to analyze perspectives between sport and society through literature and writing extensive practices. Reading and writing will be focused around issues in the sports world and other current events. Students will practice informative and argumentative writing in different modes of publication. Reading selections will include fiction and informational texts.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA810
ELA Core: Mystery: Fiction and True Crime
This course will focus on the study of the genre of mystery – fiction and true crime – and their conventions. Course work will lead students through activities designed to develop skills in reading comprehension, writing, listening, and speaking.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA808
ELA Core: Graphic Novels and the Visual Narrative
Students analyze both the written and visual components of comics, graphic novels, and other visual narratives. Students will craft their very own comic and/or graphic novel as the culminating summative assessment. Course work will lead students through activities designed to develop skills in reading comprehension, writing, listening, and speaking.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA400
ELA Core: Ideas that Shape the Modern World
Students will explore complex issues from an interdisciplinary humanities lens. Course work will lead students through activities designed to develop skills in reading comprehension, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will explore what makes us human, the major accomplishments and challenges of civilizations, and how that shapes the modern world. This will be achieved through explorations of literary arts, philosophy, history, architecture, music, and art.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA806
ELA Core: Global Voices
Global Voices is a one-semester course exploring the experience of global cultures. In our study, the class will engage in discussions of race, ethnicity, gender and other diverse facets of identity. This exploration will be conducted through informational and narrative texts, writing, listening, speaking and viewing. The class will help students discover common bonds and unique features among cultures, while also improving students’ skills as fluent, literate and effective communicators.
CREDIT : 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12
HLA803
ELA Core: African American Literature
This course emphasizes an exploration of the diverse voices within the African American literary tradition, offering a nuanced understanding of the intersections between race, identity, and societal structures. Through reflective project-based learning opportunities, students will not only refine their analytical and interpretive skills but also cultivate a profound appreciation for the beauty and significance of African American literature within the broader scope of American history.
CREDIT: 0.5
TYPE: Regular
GRADE: 11 & 12